Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
20% Ponant Bonus
204 ft²
2
Little-known Madagascar
Port Louis - Nosy Be
Dates:
1/9/2026
to
1/23/2026
days
nights on board
Transfer + Flight Nosy Be/Mauritius
Innumerable adjectives are used to describe Madagascar, as anyone who travels to this island-continent is inevitably enchanted and filled with wonder. They are most likely drawn to it for its unusual geology that forms majestic landscapes where extraordinary plant life thrives. Baobabs, kalanchoes and the aloes of Madagascar create a veritable botanical paradise for the many species of animals that live here.
Over 15 days, aboard Le Bougainville, explore the red island during an expedition cruise combining encounters with the local communities, geological discoveries, and the opportunity to observe the native fauna and flora.
From Port-Louis, on the island of Mauritius, you will first sail to Réunion Island, before reaching the shores of Madagascar. You discover Fort-Dauphin. More commonly called Tolagnaro, it is fascinating for its past marked by colonisation and for its natural environment where exceptional plant life has created a breathtaking décor.
Further on await turquoise waters, the magnificent coral reefs and the natural pools of Nosy Ve, an islet of white sand that shelters a large colony of red-tailed tropicbirds.
Along the vast beaches lined with dunes in Sarodrano, you will have the unique privilege of meeting and interacting with a small community of Vezos, one of the last “sea nomad” people. Learn more about how they make their wooden dugout canoes, shaped for trade. You will visit their charming village and sit with them in their authentic dugout canoes with square sails, to learn about their age-old seafaring skills.
Toliara, formerly Tuléar, comes into view at the mouth of the Onilahy River. Nearby, the wild expanses of southwestern Madagascar form UNESCO biosphere reserves thanks to their exceptional flora that will delight botany enthusiasts.
After exploring the picturesque and sumptuous city of Belo sur Mer, you will join Majunga where you will visit Ankarafantsika National Park, home to numerous bird and lemur species.
Your ship will then set sail towards the northern tip of Madagascar. Let yourself be dazzled by the beauty of the deserted beaches and preserved coral reefs of the idyllic islets in the Nosy Komba marine park, renowned for its fabulous underwater life.
Finally, you will reach Nosy Be, where your fabulous adventure in the Indian Ocean will come to an end.
The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Ref : PN035 - EG090126
Your itinerary
An expedition cruise along the shores of Madagascar to Réunion Island, to experience unforgettable encounters with the Vezo people, explore this island-continent’s exceptional geology, and explore the...
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Your trip in detail
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Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
- Last staterooms
LE BORÉAL
L'AUSTRAL
L'AUSTRAL
11/5/2025 to the 11/23/2025
LE CHAMPLAIN
12/3/2025 to the 12/13/2025
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Snorkelling equipment will be offered onboard (for adults only).
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Diving - Expedition Cruise
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 2 star CMAS or the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
- For those with PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 25 metres.
- If two PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
- Diving wetsuit
- Stabilising jacket
- Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
- Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
- Fins,
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Fauna and flora of the Indian Ocean
The fauna of the Indian Ocean is very varied. During the various dives, divers can observe various species of benthic fauna such as napoleon fish, oriental sweetlips, blackspotted sweetlips, batfish, and pelagic fauna such as manta rays, gray reef sharks, dolphin fish, rainbow runner as well as endemic wildlife such as different soft corals.
Scuba diving activities on this cruise
|
CALLS |
DIVES |
DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING |
|
Be Mauritius – Port Louis |
NO |
NO |
|
La Réunion – Pointe des Galets |
YES |
NO |
|
Madagascar – For Dauphin, Ehoala |
NO |
NO |
|
Madagascar – Nosy Ve |
YES |
NO |
|
Madagascar – Sarodrano |
YES |
NO |
|
Madagascar - Toliara |
YES |
NO |
|
Madagascar – Belo sur Mer |
NO |
NO |
|
Madagascar – Majunga |
NO |
NO |
|
Madagascar – Nosy Komba |
YES |
NO |
|
Madagascar – Nosy Be |
NO |
NO |
These sites are indicative. The proposed diving excursions may be changed depending on weather and safety conditions and the number of divers.
Rates
Excellence and Passion packages must be pre-booked with your travel consultant before departure. Beyond that, all reservations will be confirmed once on board and subject to availability.
- Certified divers :
- Exploration (1 dive) : €100
- Excellence Package (3 dives) : €280
- Passion Package (6 dives) : €535
Highlights
- An expedition cruise along the shores of Madagascar to Réunion Island, to experience unforgettable encounters with the Vezo people, explore this island-continent’s exceptional geology, and explore the abundant endemic wildlife and plant life.
- Outings and shore visits in a zodiac dinghy with an experienced team of naturalist guides and local Malagasy guides.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Biosphere Reserves in the south-west of Madagascar (Belo sur Mer, the coastline of Toliara and Sarodrano, Nosy Ve), the area of Pitons, cirques and remparts of Réunion Island.
- A variety of idyllic landscapes: lagoons, rainforests or thorny forests, white-sand beaches, volcanoes.
- In Madagascar, a rich and preserved endemic flora and fauna: ring-tailed and red ruffed lemurs, baobabs, chameleons, red-tailed tropicbirds.
- An exceptional encounter with one of the planet’s last ‘sea nomad’ people, the Vezo.
- Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board.
Ports of Call & Excursions
January 9, 2026 - Port Louis
Embarkation 1/9/2026 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 1/9/2026 at 6:00 PM
On the north-west coast of Mauritius, discover Port Louis, the country’s multicultural capital. Constantly in movement, the city, which was once a port of call on the route to India, is home to many cultural and historic treasures. In addition to the city’s market where you will be able to discover all the local flavours and many handicrafts, make sure that you visit Fort Adelaide. Nestling on the heights of Port Louis, this citadel built in the 16th century, classified as a national heritage monument, offers sumptuous views over the surroundings. Not far from there, the Pamplemousse Botanical Garden will reveal to you its countless plant species, coming from all four corners of the world.
January 10, 2026 - Pointe des Galets
Arrival 1/10/2026
Departure 1/10/2026
At the end of the 19th century, the construction of the port of Pointe des Galets lasted seven years, with the town called Le Port emerging in its wake. You’ll also hear the name “Port-Réunion” used to designate the Pointe des Galets, which is the main port on the island of La Réunion. In fact, it is the only port in France that has five functions: naval base, passenger terminal, commercial port, fishing port and marina. The old town of the Port conjures up the area’s rich history, which is connected to transport. Here you’ll be able to discover the former house of the Réunion Railway and Port Company (1878), its marine cemetery and its teeming covered market.
January 11, 2026 January 12, 2026 - At sea
Arrival 1/11/2026
Departure 1/12/2026
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
January 13, 2026 - Tolagnaro (Fort Dauphin)
Arrival 1/13/2026
Departure 1/13/2026
Between its sumptuous landscapes, its legendary mountain ranges and its idyllic beaches, Fort-Dauphin is a kind of paradise on earth. Nestled on the south-east tip of Madagascar, the former fishing village is as fascinating for its rich history, marked by a strong colonial past, as it is for its exceptional natural environment. More commonly known as “Tôlagnaro”, it shelters spectacular biodiversity with the majestic Pic Saint-Louis as a natural sanctuary. Like a sugar loaf standing 529 metres (1,736 feet) high and overlooking the town, this mountain is home to exceptional flora: ravenalas, raffia palms, orchids and periwinkles all intermingle in a breathtaking setting.
January 14, 2026 - At sea
Arrival 1/14/2026
Departure 1/14/2026
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
January 15, 2026 - Nosy Ve
Arrival 1/15/2026
Departure 1/15/2026
Five kilometres out to sea from the Malagasy village of Anakao, Nosy Ve is an unspoilt paradise of exceptional wild beauty. Located on a two-kilometre (1.2 miles) long coral bank, this island is unique in that it is home to a colony of endemic birds commonly called red-tailed tropicbird. This nature reserve, a nesting site for rare birds, is unique because it is this species’ only reproduction site. The duckboards installed on the island will enable you to observe the birds hidden from view under the forest of Madagascar jewel. This Eden dotted with natural pools is also a setting for coral, fish and sea turtles you can discover while snorkelling.
January 16, 2026 - Sarodrano
Arrival 1/16/2026
Departure 1/16/2026
Sarodrano is a small village in the south-west of Madagascar in the province of Atsimo-Andrefana, at the mouth of the Onilahy River. This village of Vezo fishermen possesses the authentic and unspoiled charm of remote places. You will be surprised by the dexterity with which these “nomads of the sea” steer their outrigger canoes to fish, or keep up their ancestral traditions like seaweed cultivation. If the tide allows it, you will also have the possibility of discovering the sacred cave of Sarodrano, a natural fresh water pool separated from the sea by just 10 metres (33 feet) of rocks.
January 17, 2026 January 18, 2026 - Toliara
Arrival 1/17/2026
Departure 1/18/2026
Located to the south-west of the island of Madagascar, near the mouth of the River Onilahy, Toliara is a port town that opens onto the Mozambique Channel. Inhabited for several centuries, becoming prosperous during the colonial period in the 19th century, Toliara is a cheerful town with unspoilt nature and exceptional flora that will certainly appeal to fans of botany. The Antsokay Arboretum botanical garden with nearly 1,000 Madagascar plant species, 90% of which are endemic, is worth a fragrant and charming detour. Cultural heritage will not be outdone, with the interesting museums of Mahafaly ethnology and the Museum of the Sea.
January 19, 2026 - Belo sur Mer
Arrival 1/19/2026
Departure 1/19/2026
In the south west of the Menabe Region, in the district of Morondava, you will marvel at the picturesque beauty of Belo sur Mer. This peninsula edged with mangroves alternates fine sandy beaches with rocks plunging into a sea whose shades fall between deep blue and crystal-clear green. This fishing village is renowned for its dhows, the traditional sailing boats of Madagascar, which are built in situ, in the local artisanal boatyard. The choreography of these vessels coming and going on the beach sets the pace of life in the village, bestowing it with a unique charm.
January 20, 2026 - At sea
Arrival 1/20/2026
Departure 1/20/2026
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
January 21, 2026 - Majunga
Arrival 1/21/2026
Departure 1/21/2026
A lively and cosmopolitan town on the west coast of Madagascar, Majunga, also called Mahajanga, will be a port of call rich in discoveries. The former capital of the Sakalava kingdom, then a significant interchange due to its prime position between Africa and the Middle East, the city displays an interesting cultural patchwork. Also renowned for its outstanding natural sites, this port of call will provide you with the opportunity to discover the Cirque Rouge, immense red sandstone formations classified as national heritage.
January 22, 2026 - Nosy Komba
Arrival 1/22/2026
Departure 1/22/2026
During your cruise, your ship will stop in Nosy Komba, otherwise known as “lemur island”. Not far from the Madagascar mainland, this volcanic island shaped like a gigantic turtle shell is covered in dense tropical rainforest. This vegetation is home to amusing black lemurs – furry orange-brown and black creatures that are surprisingly agile and call to each other from amongst the trees. The many small beaches and the emerald-coloured water make Nosy Komba a natural gem that only a select few visit.
January 23, 2026 - Nosy Be
Arrival 1/23/2026
Disembarkation 1/23/2026 at 8:00 AM
Nosy Be (from the Malagasy: Nosy meaning island and Be meaning large), in the Mozambique Channel, is located near the north-eastern coastlines of Madagascar. A former French protectorate, known under the promising name of “the scented island”, of volcanic origin, it is located on a maritime route with access to India and Asia. Cosmopolitan, a boulevard of encounters, its mixed-race and multicultural population still remembers its past as a significant trading post. Today, its 321 km² enchant lovers of nature and idyllic beaches. Its sumptuous primary forest is home to animals that are endemic to the island as well as surprising flora.
Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, a multisensorial underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
Decks
Transfer + Flight Nosy Be/Mauritius
For your serenity, PONANT selects a flight and organises the transfer between the port and the airport. This package is included in your cruise fare.
Disembarkation Day – Nosy Be/Mauritius
Disembarkation.
Meet and greet at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
Transfer to the airport in time for check-in of flight Nosy Be/Port Louis selected by PONANT.
Flight Nosy Be/Mauritius selected by PONANT.
Approximate flight duration: 2 h 30.
We highly recommend you stay one night in Mauritius after this flight.
This programme includes:
-
Flight Nosy Be/Mauritius selected by PONANT in economy class.
-
Transfer as mentioned in the programme.
-
English-speaking assistance.
This programme does not include:
-
Personal expenses.
-
Any other service not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
-
Due to limited local transportation resources, waiting might be generated.
-
Flight included in the programme is as of today, operated in economy class.
-
For passengers in transit in Mauritius, we recommend staying one night in Mauritius after this flight.
-
Programme and flight schedule are subject to change without prior notice.
Tropical Expedition
Explore the planet’s most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania’s archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.
Diving
During an introduction to scuba diving or a more advanced dive for holders of the necessary certifications (level 1 on yachting cruises and 2 on expedition cruises), explore the planet’s most beautiful underwater environments in the company of a PONANT diving instructor, as well as a local instructor when required by local legislation. They will ensure that your dives are conducted smoothly and safely: supervision of four certified divers at a time, evaluation of diving skills and experience, adherence to safety stops, zones and the maximum depth authorised.
A recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to the main diving instructor.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
DISCOVER MAURITIUS (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – North coast of Mauritius
Meet at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign (Counter No 24 in the airport arrival hall). You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to your hotel.
Check-in in your room at official check-in. You can select with supplement the optionnal early check-in if you want to guarantee your arrival before the official check-in.
The day is at leisure.
Dinner served at the hotel.
Day 2 - North cost of Maurtitius/Port Louis
Breakfast and check-out procedures.
Start your day with the visit of the the Pamplemousses Botanic Garden, officially known as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, one of the most visited attractions in Mauritius.
The garden is in the proximity of Port-Louis in the district of Pamplemousses and is home to an incredible variety of tropical plants - many of which are indigenous.
The botanical garden was initially created as a private garden by the French governor of Mauritius nearly 300 years ago, and later became the National Botanical Garden of Mauritius. The garden stretches over endless acres of land, and it may take you more than a week to see the whole garden. It is populated with more than 650 varieties of plants, including the famous Baobabs, the Palmier Bouteille, the ineluctable Giant Water Lilies, dozens of medicinal plants, a large spice garden and much more. One of the main attractions of the botanical garden is the 85 varieties of palm trees brought from different corners of the world. Other indigenous species of plants are also exhibited here.
Then, discover one of the jewels of the Mauritian national heritage. This visit and tour of Chateau de Labourdonnais is a voyage back in history.
Enjoy a visit of this Chateau in a natural setting, where history meets architecture, flora, orchards, cuisine, and the Mauritian way of life. Marvel at the beautifully decorated rooms in the chateau, with vintage decor, furnishings, and dinnerware. Your visit includes a rum tasting session.
The lunch is included at the restaurant offering a local cuisine inspired by the fruits and vegetables from the Labourdonnais orchards.
Then, you will be transferred to the pier, to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
Located along the beaches of Turtle Bay, The Oberoi Beach Resort 5* promises a relaxing stay in serene, picturesque surroundings. Luxurious, spacious rooms with elegant furnishings are sure to make your stay unforgettable.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Luxury Pavilion room at the Oberoi Beach Resort 5* (local standards) or similar, halfboard included (dinner and breakafast).
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals: on day 1 (1 mineral water, 1 glass of beer or 1 soft, tea or coffee) and on day 2 (2 Soft drinks or 2 juices + half bottle of mineral water + American coffee)
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
- Hospitality desk at the hotel the day of your arrival.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Early-check and late check-out.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- This program requires to be able of walking outside (hot and humid weather). We recommend wearing lightweight clothing and comfortable walking shoes, bring sunscreen, a hat and mosquito repellent.
- Official check-in at 14:00.
- Optional early check-in proposed in supplement upon availability.
- Check out time is 12: 00 am.
Contact of your hotel:
The Oberoi Beach Resort 5*
Turtle Bay, Balaclava, Mauritius 20108
Telephone: 00 91 11 2390 4472
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $1,010
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.RELAXING STAY IN MAURITIUS (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Mauritius
Meet at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT from Nosy Be.
You will be transferred to your hotel.
Check-in in your room at official hour. In case of arrival before official check-in, you can enjoy hotel facilities.
A snack or lunch will be served according to your flight arrival time, reconfirmed as close as possible to the departure in your travel books.
Day at leisure.
Dinner included.
Day 2 – Mauritius
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel:
Located on the Blue Bay Peninsula, at the southern tip of the island and 10 minutes from the airport, the Beachcomber Shandrani 4* hotel offers comfortable rooms in a tropical setting between ocean and garden. The complex has a wide range of activities that will allow you to relax: 3 private sandy beaches, 1 swimming pool, a sports center, water activities.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Superior room at Beachcomber Shandrani 4* (local standards) or similar, half board included (diner and breakfast).
- Beverages package during lunch (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local glass of beer + 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking assistance during transfers.
Your programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Lunch on day 1 if your flight arrive during afternoon.
- Lunch on day 2.
- Late check-out.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- The official check-in time is 2 p.m.
- The official check-out room time is 12:00.
- The included transfer from the airport to the hotel on day 1 will be adapted by our local representative depending on the arrival time of your flight from Nosy Be. No activity is planned on this day, only free time to be able to adapt with the flight arrival schedule from Nosy Be that will be confirmed a few weeks before your departure.
Contact of your hotel:
Beachcomber Shandrani
Blue Bay, Le Chaland 51510 (Mahebourg)
Maurice
Telephone : (+230) 603 4100
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $740
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.ECOCHIC GETAWAY IN MAURITIUS (3 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Mauritius airport / Chamarel
Meet at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT from Nosy Be.
You will be transferred to your hotel. The lunch is included in case of arrival before 2: 00 pm.
Check-in in your room.
The end of the day is at leisure.
Dinner at the hotel.
Day 2 – Chamarel and Central area
After breakfast, depart for Kot Marie-Michelle, a table d’hôte located in the heart of the island in the village of Midlands (about 1-hour drive).
Surrounded by mountains, sugarcane fields, tea plantations, and hunting grounds, it offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Kot Marie-Michelle specializes in traditional cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. Vegetables are sourced from their garden or the village, and spices are roasted over wooden flames and ground manually on a roche-carri, just like the grandmothers of Mauritius used to use. In fact, this table d'hôte is run by two young grandmothers. It provides a unique experience of local life, offering authentic Mauritian cuisine and warm hospitality. The activity includes a culinary discovery before experiencing an authentic lunch (including several local dishes).
Then reach the Black River Gorges National Park which is an ancient primaeval forest, famous for being the home of endangered species such as the Mauritius Falcon. In earlier times, the extremely hard ebony found in the park was used in making warships in different parts of the world.
The Gorges Viewpoint offers a spectacular panoramic view of endless green stretches. You will be amazed to discover how high the viewing area is from the gorge. On the right side of the viewpoint, you can see a breathtaking waterfall.
Continue until the Chamarel Geopark. With distinct colours of red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple and yellow, this geological curious happening has 15 metres of highly coloured dunes - an almost surreal, lunar-like spectacle of rainbow-hued sand dunes before your eyes. You will have the chance to view the gorgeous Chamarel waterfall. Three distinct streams plunge down almost 100 metres from the St. Denis River, down into the gorge. The sight of this impressive waterfall against the scenic forests and mountains is truly breathtaking.
Your day of visit ends at Ebony forest where you discover how rapidly Mauritian forests disappeared and why today Mauritius harbours one of the World’s most threatened flora and fauna populations during this 25-minute guided tour. Visit the native plant propagation nursery and see some of the rarest plants in the world being grown.
Back to your hotel, and end of the day at leisure.
Dîner at the hotel.
Day 3 – Chamarel / South East of Mauritius
Accompanied by your guide, you will depart to discover the scenic south of Mauritius.
After 30-minute drive, start your visit at Bois Cheri, the first tea plantation in Mauritius and dates back to 1892.
Visiting the Bois Chéri Estate is one of the main sites of the Mauritian Tea Route. This is the spot where tea-lovers will get to learn how tea is cultivated, picked and packaged. You will travel back in history throughout this visit and get a surprising feeling of tranquility. You will visit the tea production museum learning more about the history of tea in Mauritius. Nowadays Bois Cheri produces a new range of flavored teas, green teas and herbal teas. You may taste them during your visit. Get ready to be amazed by the richness and freshness of the flavours you are about to taste. The Bois Chéri offers a great panoramic view of the south of the island.
Your morning vissit continues until La Rhumerie de Saint Aubin. Located in the south of the island, this estate is a pioneer in the manufacture of agricultural rum. At l’atelier du Rhum, you can discover traditional techniques and all the process of rum making.
Prepare a “rhum arrangé” of your choice with seasonal fruits and seal the bottle for a souvenir to bring home. After the rum workshop, enjoy delicious dishes prepared with the rum at Le Saint Aubin restaurant, an old colonial house dating from 1819.
After your lunch, you can visit the Mini Ferme du Domaine de Saint Aubin, La Maison de La Vanille, where aromatic Vanilla pods are produced, La Serre d ’Anthurium du Domaine de Saint Aubin, Le Jardin Botanique du Domaine de Saint Aubin, Le Moulin du Domaine de Saint Aubin and La Boutique du Domaine de Saint Aubin where you can find other souvenirs.
Back to your hotel, enjoy an en rout stop at Gris Gris, a beach located at the southernmost tip of the island. Unlike other beaches in the South known for their calm waters, Gris Gris stands out as a unique destination. This little piece of coastline lacks a coral reef, allowing powerful waves to crash upon the shore, providing a mesmerizing spectacle for visitors. Gris Gris offers a stark contrast to the tranquillity of other nearby beaches. At Gris Gris viewpoint, you can witness the relentless force of the waves as they collide with a prominent rock formation, creating a dramatic display accompanied by a resounding roar.
Back to your hotel, and end of the day at leisure.
Dîner at the hotel.
Day 4 – Chamarel / Mauritius airport
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in of the PONANT selected flight.
Your hotel:
Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge is a magical place nestled in a green setting on the picturesque heights of the Chamarel Valley. The establishment perfectly combines refinement and eco-responsibility for an exclusive and intimate holiday. The twenty rooms and suites each have a different decoration, alliance between the mixture of the Mauritian culture and the surrounding nature.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
-
3-night accommodation in Suite at Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge 4* (local standard) or similar, including half board (breakfast and dinner).
-
Meals as mentioned in the programme.
-
Beverages package during meals mentioned in the programme (during lunch at the hotel on day 1: mineral water, 1 soft drink or 1 beer, tea or coffee; during lunch on day 2: mineral water, 1 soft drink or 1 rum; during lunch in Saint Aubin on day 3: mineral water, 1 cocktail, tea or coffee shop).
-
Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
-
The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
-
Personal expenses.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Beverages during dinner at the hotel.
-
Early check-in or late check-out.
-
Optional services and activities proposed at the hotel.
Please note:
-
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
-
No TV in room.
-
The official check-in time is noon.
-
The official check-out time is 2:00 p.m.
-
During visits and outdoor activities, provide comfortable clothing and shoes, sun protection.
-
The program is not recommended for people with reduced mobility.
Contact of your hotel:
Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge 4*
Piton Canot, Chamarel
Mauritius
Telephone: (230) 483 4240
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $1,850
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.